Analyzing Anodizing: Hard Coat vs. Clear

We utilize two different anodizing processes to plate parts and components for our customers – hard coat anodizing and clear or dyed anodizing. What are the differences?

Hard Coat Anodizing: Since this is typically a smoother, harder coating, it is most applicable on machine parts that need to meet specific requirements, such as wire resistance, abrasion resistance and friction resistance. These coatings are applied in thicknesses ranging from .001-.003 in. and they are only found as a black hard coat.

Clear anodizing: Clear anodizing, which is more of a heavy oxide coating, is usually .0002-.0006 in. of coating. Since clear anodizing is utilized for stopping corrosion on aluminum, it is recommended for parts in either inside or outside environments, especially in the medical field and architectural applications. Generally speaking, clear anodizing is the more popular choice because colored dyes can be added once the coating is complete.

Dyed Anodizing
Dyed Anodizing is a process deal for providing decorative qualities to parts. Proper formation of aluminum oxide coatings provides aluminum with a rich, vibrant, permanent color finish with increased resistance to corrosion and abrasion.